No. 2 Watch House: Beachfront Apartment on Exeter Road

Perched on Exeter Road, No. 2 Watch House forms part of a historic terrace overlooking the English Channel, where the rhythmic crash of waves meets the occasional rumble of passing trains along the coastal line.

This two-bedroom apartment caters to small groups or couples, accommodating up to four with its straightforward layout: a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, a twin room, and a second shower room. The open-plan living space flows into a compact kitchen equipped with an oven, hob, microwave and fridge-freezer, all geared towards self-sufficient stays without unnecessary frills.

Step out onto the terrace for uninterrupted sea vistas, where gulls wheel overhead and the horizon stretches towards Exmouth on clear mornings.

The position proves ideal for those drawn to the area’s maritime pulse, mere paces from the pebbled expanse of Dawlish Beach, where rock pools teem with crabs and anemones at low tide.

Follow the South West Coast Path directly from the door for brisk walks that hug the cliffs, passing hidden coves and the occasional sighting of seals basking offshore.

For railway buffs, the apartment’s vantage point captures the drama of steam specials thundering past, a nod to Brunel’s Victorian engineering that carved the line through red sandstone tunnels.

Inside, satellite TV and complimentary WiFi keep evenings connected, while the inclusion of towels and linens eases unpacking. Pets receive a warm invitation, allowing dogs to join explorations of the nearby Lawn, a manicured green space dotted with black swans gliding on the brook.

Families appreciate the proximity to rock pooling gear hire spots, and the flat’s ground-floor access suits varied mobility needs. Fishing rods stand ready for casting from the shore, or extend hikes to Dawlish Warren’s nature reserve, a 2.5-kilometre stretch of dunes alive with migratory birds.

Guest feedback paints a picture of reliable comfort amid the seaside hum. One reviewer raved about the “great sea views and railway enthusiast’s paradise,” highlighting how the terrace becomes a front-row seat to the coastal drama.

Others commend the spotless setup and responsive hosts, with comments like “warm welcome and highly rated beachfront” underscoring its appeal for relaxed getaways. Based on over 10 reviews across platforms, it holds a high score for cleanliness and location, though a few note the compact kitchen suits lighter meals rather than full feasts.

From here, wander into town for fish and chips wrapped in paper, still steaming against the breeze, or trace the path to Coryton Cove for a quieter stretch of sand. The apartment’s terrace sunsets linger long into the evening, casting a golden sheen over the water, inviting quiet reflection on the day’s coastal rhythms.

For those seeking a base that blends history, nature and the simple pull of the tide, No. 2 Watch House delivers without fanfare.